On the eve of World Tuberculosis Day, observed annually on March 24, President Droupadi Murmu delivered a message emphasising the importance of raising public awareness about Tuberculosis (TB) and the collective efforts needed to tackle this global health challenge.

“I am happy to note that ‘World Tuberculosis Day’ is being celebrated on 24th March with the aim of increasing public awareness about Tuberculosis (TB), the President said.

She highlighted the significance of this day in educating the masses about the widespread impact of tuberculosis worldwide.

What is Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB), also known colloquially as the “white death”, is an infectious disease usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) bacteria. Tuberculosis generally affects the lungs, but it can also affect other parts of the body.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tuberculosis is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide.